Five-time Champions League winner joins Team World lineup to set up the ultimate showdown on the golf course against Team England’s elite at Reignwood Icons of Football 2026.

The world’s best footballers turned golfers to do battle on the fairways – watch it live from 31st January – 1st February at Robinswood Club, Reignwood Park, Bangkok. Get your tickets now at www.icons-series.com.

VIRGINIA WATER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 10: Former footballer, Gareth Bale plays his second shot on the ninth hole during the Pro-Am ahead of the BMW PGA Championship 2025 at Wentworth Golf Club on September 10, 2025 in Virginia Water, England. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

Bangkok, Thailand – January 2026: Icons Series confirms that Gareth Bale – widely regarded as one of the most iconic footballers of his generation and one of the most gifted golfers ever to come out of elite football – has officially joined Team World for the Reignwood Icons of Football 2026.

As a scratch golfer, Bale is one of the standout names to watch during the tournament, which brings together 24 of the most recognisable names from global football, to compete on 31 January – 1 February 2026 at Robinswood Club, Bangkok in a Team England v Team World format.

Bale joins an already extraordinary Team World roster that includes:

  • Gareth Bale
  • Gabriel Batistuta
  • Nigel de Jong
  • Luís Figo
  • Ryan Giggs
  • David Ginola
  • Ruud Gullit
  • Aaron Ramsey
  • Andriy Shevchenko
  • Nemanja Vidić
  • Dwight Yorke
  • Gianfranco Zola

Bale’s arrival gives Team World a major momentum boost heading into Bangkok and adds to the fierce competitive tension building between the two teams.

Sporting a strong lineup of their own, Team England is as follows:

  • Jimmy Bullard
  • Michael Carrick
  • Robbie Fowler
  • Joe Hart
  • Paul Ince
  • Phil Jagielka
  • Jermain Jenas
  • Phil Jones
  • Teddy Sheringham
  • John Terry
  • Theo Walcott
ICONS SERIES RETURNS BIGGER THAN EVER

The Reignwood Icons of Football 2026 will see 24 world-renowned football legends face off over a dramatic 10-hole matchplay format, broadcast worldwide. Fans will see their icons up close, competing not on the pitch – but in one of sport’s most competitive environments, desperately vying to claim the win, the Icons Trophy and all bragging rights.

Gareth Bale commented: “I’ve always watched and admired the Icons Series and knew it was something that I’d be a part of. The players are committed, the competition is intense and I look forward to doing my part to help secure a win. Team World is shaping up strongly and I can’t wait to compete – especially against some of the Team England boys I’ve faced over the years.”

 Thomas Brookes, CEO Icons Series, said: “Gareth Bale is one of the biggest football icons of his generation and one of the most naturally talented crossover golfers we’ve ever seen. His arrival levels up Team World and elevates the competitive storyline heading into Bangkok. This year’s edition will be our strongest ever.”

 Fans attending Reignwood Icons of Football 2026 will see:

  • 24 superstar footballers competing in live matchplay golf
  • Team rivalries played out hole-by-hole
  • The return of The $10M Swing – golf’s richest single hole
  • Entertainment, hospitality and fan-interaction moments

Coverage will be broadcast globally and across Icons channels. Tickets are on sale now at www.icons-series.com.